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Victo Posted 13 years ago
Grammar

'fewer' and 'less than'

Opinions vary on this, too. I think 'fewer' is preferred over 'less than' in these:

'In fewer than fifty words, please explain why you want this position.'

'In fifty words or fewer, please explain why you want this position.'

'Fewer (or 'less than') 50 percent were affected. I say 'less than' for this one, although I've seen both used.

Thanks.
  

Top answer

People taught by traditional grammar will likely explain that "less" is used for uncountables such as water, air. e. Paul makes less money than his wife.

— Grammarfreak

  • People taught by traditional grammar will likely explain that "less" is used for uncountables such as water, air.
  • e.
  • Paul makes less money than his wife.
  • And "fewer " is resserved for countables" But in recent years, this rule seems to be somewhat abandoned, especially in north America.
  • You will see signs in supermarket that read " Express Checkout: 10 items or less".
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3 Answers
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People taught by traditional grammar will likely explain that "less" is used for uncountables such as water, air. light, money, sugar and etc; i.e. Paul makes less money than his wife. And "fewer " is resserved for countables" But in recent years, this rule seems to be somewhat abandoned, especially in north America. You will see signs in supermarket that read " Express Checkout: 10 items o
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'In fewer than fifty words, ...' and 'In fifty words or fewer, ...'.

'Less than 50 percent were ...'.
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'Ten items or fewer' sounds as stilted as 'It is I'.
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